scholarly journals A Study of Wideband Energy Reflectance in Patients with Otosclerosis: Data from a Chinese Population

2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suju Wang ◽  
Wenyang Hao ◽  
Chunxiao Xu ◽  
Daofeng Ni ◽  
Zhiqiang Gao ◽  
...  

Objective(s). The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of wideband acoustic immittance (WAI) in the diagnosis of otosclerosis by comparing the differences in the energy reflectance (ER) of WAI between patients with otosclerosis and age- and gender-matched normal hearing controls in the Chinese population. Methods. Twenty surgically confirmed otosclerotic ears were included in the otosclerotic group. The ER of WAI at ambient and peak pressures, resonance frequency, and 226-Hz tympanogram were collected prior to surgery using a Titan hearing test platform (Interacoustics A/S, Middelfart, Denmark). All diagnoses of otosclerosis in the tested ear were confirmed by surgery after the measurements. Thirteen normal adults (26 ears) who were age- and gender-matched with the otosclerotic patients were included as the control group. Results. At peak pressure, the ERs of otosclerotic patients were higher than those of the control group for frequencies less than 4,000Hz and were lower for frequencies greater than 4,000Hz. In addition, within the analyzed frequencies, the differences observed at 2,520Hz was statistically significant (p<0.05/16=0.003, Bonferroni corrected). At ambient pressure, the differences observed at 1,260 and 6,350Hz were statistically significant (p<0.05/16=0.003, Bonferroni corrected). Although the differences between the otosclerotic and control groups exhibited similar trends to those in studies implemented in Caucasian populations, the norms in the present study in the control group were different from those in the Caucasian populations, suggesting racial differences in WAI test results. Regarding the middle ear resonance frequency, no significant difference was observed between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusion. WAI can provide valuable information for the diagnosis of otosclerosis in the Chinese population. Norms and diagnostic criteria corresponding to the patient’s racial group are necessary to improve the efficiency of WAI in the diagnosis of otosclerosis.

2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-8 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yi-Nu Ma ◽  
Ting-Yu Xie ◽  
Xue-Yi Chen

Background. Our previous data suggested that three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs1048661, rs3825942, and rs2165241, of the lysyl oxidase-like 1 gene (LOXL1) are significantly associated with exfoliation syndrome (XFS) and exfoliation glaucoma (XFG). The following study investigated other SNPs that potentially effect XFS/XFG. Methods. A total of 216 Uygur patients diagnosed with XFS/XFG, and 297 Uygur volunteers were admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital at Xinjiang Medical University between January 2015 and October 2017. Blood samples were collected by venipuncture. Alleles and genotypes of LOXL1, TBC1D21, ATXN2, APOE, CLU, AFAP1, TXNRD2, CACNA1A, ABCA1, GAS7, and CNTNAP2 were analyzed by direct sequencing. Results. The allele G of rs41435250 of LOXL1 was a risk allele for XFS/XFG (P<0.001), whereas the allele G of rs893818 of LOXL1 was a protective allele for XFS/XFG (P<0.001). After adjusting all data for age and gender, the following results were obtained: the frequency of genotype CC for rs7137828 of ATXN2 was significantly higher in XFS/XFG patients than in controls (P=0.027), while no significance was found with reference to the frequency of genotype TT. The frequency of genotype GG for rs893818 of LOXL1 (P<0.001) and the frequency of genotype AA were both significantly higher in XFS/XFG groups compared to the control group (P<0.001). In addition, the frequency of genotype TT for rs41435250 of LOXL1 was higher in XFS/XFG patients than in controls (P=0.003), while no significant difference was found with reference to the frequency of genotype GG after adjusting for age and gender. In addition, the haplotypes G-A/T-G/G-G for rs41435250 and rs893818 were significantly associated with XFS/G. Conclusions. With reference to LOXL1, the rs41435250 resulted as a risk factor and rs893818 as a protective factor for XFS/XFG in the Uygur populations. Meanwhile, the rs16958445 of TBC1D21 and the rs7137828 of ATXN2 have also shown to be associated with pathogenesis of XFS/XFG.


Author(s):  
Erdal Kurnaz ◽  
Yaşar Şen ◽  
Süleyman Aydın

AbstractBackground:The aim of this study was to determine the serum levels of kisspeptin and ghrelin (GAH), as well as the relationship of these two peptides with each other in premature thelarche (PT) and premature adrenarche (PA) cases and to investigate the possibility of using these peptides as markers in the differentiation of puberty disorders.Methods:A PT group aged 1–8 years (n = 40), a PA group aged 1–9 years (n = 23, female/male = 20/3) and control groups consistent with each of the previous groups in terms of age and gender were created for the study. Kisspeptin and ghrelin levels were measured with ELISA methods from blood samples drawn while fasting in the morning.Results:When the PT group was compared with the controls, the plasma kisspeptin levels of the cases were significantly higher than the control group (165.47 ± 15.45 pmol/L, 96.82 ± 12.33 pmol/L, p = 0.005, respectively). Kisspeptin levels in the PA group did not show a difference with the control group (121.36 ± 17.99 pmol/L, 95.52 ± 11.54 pmol/L, p = 0.249, respectively). No significant difference could be found when GAH levels in the PT and PA groups were compared with controls. No significant correlation was found between kisspeptin and GAH levels in the PT and PA groups.Conclusions:Our results indicate that kisspeptin plays an important role in the PT, but GAH is not associated with puberty disorders.


1999 ◽  
Vol 11 (4) ◽  
pp. 421-429 ◽  
Author(s):  
Perminder Sachdev ◽  
Henry Brodaty ◽  
Sophia Roubina ◽  
Roderick A. Mackenzie

We performed awake and resting electroencephalograms (EEGs) on 22 subjects with DSM-III-R schizophrenic disorder of late onset (at or after age 50 years), and compared them with the EEGs of 33 healthy community controls matched for age and gender. The EEGs were rated qualitatively and a 2-minute, artifact-free tracing from each subject was quantified manually by an experienced neurophysiologist unaware of the identity of the subject group. The only significant difference was the presence of more generalized slowing in the EEGs of schizophrenia patients, which was at least partially accounted for by the effect of neuroleptic drugs. The schizophrenic subjects did not have a greater prevalence of epileptiform disturbances or abnormal asymmetry of the EEG compared to the control group. Our study does not suggest the presence of underlying dementia in schizophrenia of late onset.


Author(s):  
Y. Rosy Ayda ◽  
A. Mooventhan ◽  
M. H. Vinothkumar ◽  
C. A. Kayelarasi ◽  
S. Vijaykanth ◽  
...  

Aims: To compare the iris manifestations between COVID-19 positive (severe) cases and their age and gender matched non-COVID-19 individuals. Study Design and Setting: A comparative cross sectional survey performed in Government Omandurar Medical College, Chennai Methodology: This study was performed to compare the iris manifestations between COVID-19 positive (severe) cases (n = 119) and their age and gender matched non-COVID-19 individuals (n = 119). Iris manifestations (both right and left eyes) of all the subjects (both study and control groups) were observed at only one point in time, and was compared between the groups. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics (Frequency distribution and percentage) were performed using Microsoft excel 2010. Within-group analysis was performed using Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test, while the between-groups (study and control) analysis was performed using Chi-square test with the use of statistical package for the social sciences, version 16. P value < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results: The research findings in right iris showed a significant difference at p<0.05 in Inner Pupillary Border (IPB), Autonomic Nerve Wreath (ANW), Scurf Rim (SCR), Inflammatory Sign (IS) and Lung Lesion (LL), while no significant difference at p<0.05 in Pupil Size (PS), Absorption Ring (AR), Iris Constitution (IC) and Stress Ring (STR) between the study and control groups. Likewise, the results of the left iris showed a significant difference at p<0.05 in IPB, ANW, SCR, LL and STR, while no significant change at p<0.05 in PS, IC, AR and IS between the study and control groups. Conclusion: The paper aid comparison of the iris manifestations between COVID-19 positive and their age and gender matched non-COVID-19 individuals. The findings are of broad use to the scientific and medical communities searching for safe, cost-effective diagnostic approach. The present study is important in furthering our understanding of the importance of looking into the iris for diagnostic purpose.


2021 ◽  
Vol 52 (3) ◽  
pp. 611-619
Author(s):  
Aljoubory & Altaee

The following study was conducted to investigate the correlation between the expression of three different genes (NOB1, DDX47, CD101 (with the occurrence and development of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in Iraq. The difference in the expression of these genes between patients and healthy controls was studied. Moreover the correlation of age and gender with CML occurrence and comparing with control was also examined. Results showed significant increases in mean of gene expression level (ΔCt) of patient groups for all genes compared to the corresponding ΔCt means in control group, also the gene expression folding (2-∆∆Ct) reflect significant differences in the expression of these genes and CD101, mRNA showed the highest level in CML patients which reached to (3.44), while NOB1 and DDX47 recorded (2.90 and 1.08) respectively. On the other hand no significant differences were recorded according to age and gender between CML patients and control, CML disease could affect any age and both male and female.


2006 ◽  
Vol 64 (4) ◽  
pp. 912-915 ◽  
Author(s):  
José Carlos Pereira ◽  
Arthur Oscar Schelp ◽  
Arlindo Neto Montagnoli ◽  
Ana Rita Gatto ◽  
André Augusto Spadotto ◽  
...  

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the maximum residual signal auto-correlation also known as pitch amplitude (PA) values in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. METHOD: The signals of 21 Parkinson’s patients were compared with 15 healthy individuals, divided according age and gender. RESULTS: Statistical difference was seen between groups for PA, 0.39 for controls and 0.25 for PD. Normal value threshold was set as 0.3; (p<0.001). In the Parkinson’s group 80.77%, and in the control group only 12.28%, had a PA<0.3 demonstrating an association between these variables. The dispersion diagram for age and PA for PD individuals showed p=0.01 and r=0.54. There was no significant difference in relation to gender and PA between groups. CONCLUSION: The significant differences in pitch’s amplitude between PD patients and healthy individuals demonstrate the methods specificity. The results showed the need of prospective controlled studies to improve the use and indications of residual signal auto-correlation to evaluate speech in PD patients.


2020 ◽  
Vol 41 (Supplement_2) ◽  
Author(s):  
N Bettella ◽  
M De Lazzari ◽  
A Zorzi ◽  
T Vessella ◽  
A Cipriani ◽  
...  

Abstract Aims To evaluate by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) if left ventricle papillary muscle abnormalities, such as hypertrophy and abnormal location, may be the anatomo-functional substrates responsible for TWI inversion in lateral or infero-lateral leads in otherwise healthy athletes. Methods We included competitive athletes with TWI in lateral or infero-lateral leads in the absence of cardiac diseases detected by CMR. The control population included healthy athletes with normal ECG, matched for age and gender. We compared thickness, volume (both absolute and relative to the cardiac mass) and position of the papillary muscles between cases and controls. Results We included 53 athletes with apparently unexplained TWI in the lateral or infero-lateral leads (median age 20 years (17–42), 86.8% males) and 53 athletes with no TWI matched for age and gender. 4 patients (7.6%) had family history for cardiomyopathy or sudden cardiac death. Athletes with TWI showed more hypertrophic papillary muscles compared to controls, with statistically significant difference in diameter, area and volume (p&lt;0.01). The median ratio between the papillary muscles and the left ventricular mass was 4.4% among athletes with TWI versus 3% among those without TWI (p&lt;0.001). Papillary muscles showed apical displacement in 47% of cases, compared to 17% in the control group (p=0.001). Conclusions Idiopathic TWI in lateral or infero-lateral leads is associated with left ventricle papillary muscle hypertrophy and their apical displacement detected by CMR. The comprehension of clinical and prognostic significance of papillary muscle abnormalities responsible for these ventricular repolarization alterations requires further studies. Example Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None


2021 ◽  
Vol 31 (Supplement_3) ◽  
Author(s):  
D Marinov ◽  
T Dimitrova

Abstract Background Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common form of spinal abnormality. It affects about 2-3% of all teenagers. Its etiology remains unknown but studies suggest that multiple factors may play a role. A growing body of evidence supports the role of body composition abnormalities including low body mass index (BMI) and low body fat percentage (BF%) as risk factors for AIS development. This study aimed to evaluate these indicators in a group of teenagers with AIS and compare them to age and gender-matched controls. Methods The study included 98 adolescents with AIS and 73 controls aged 11-18 years from Varna, Bulgaria. Data was collected after receiving informed consent from the parents. Data on AIS diagnosis and severity was collected from the available medical documentation. Anthropometrics were measured using calibrated Tanita BC-420MA (ISSO 9001) and following ESPEN guidelines. BMI for age and BF% for age were estimated using WHO Child Growth Standards and BF% reference curves for children. Results In the AIS group, 15% were underweight with BMI for age under -2SD. 11% were above +1SD indicating a risk of overweight or obesity. In comparison, 7% of the control group were underweight while 32% were at risk of being overweight or obese. There is a statistically significant difference between the BMI for age in the two groups (χ2=19.564 Đ¿рĐ, p &lt; 0.005). In the AIS group, 47% had BF% for age under the 2nd percentile indicating underfat, while 7% of AIS cases had BF% for age above the 85th percentile indicating they are overfat or obese. In comparison, 15% of the control group were underfat while 19% were overfat or obese. There is a statistically significant difference between the BF% for age in the two groups (χ2=21,504 Đ¿рĐ, p &lt; 0.001). Conclusions Children with AIS are more likely to be underweight and underfat compared to their healthy peers. Cases of having a high BF% and being overweight or obese are scarce amongst AIS patients. Key messages The majority of children with AIS have abnormal body composition compared to healthy age and gender-matched controls. Aspects of the nutritional status may play a role in the etiology of AIS. Children with low body fat might be at a higher risk of developing AIS. AIS screening programs should be directed towards underweight children.


2021 ◽  
pp. 014556132110197
Author(s):  
Tajudeen Yusuf ◽  
Yemi R. Raji ◽  
Taye J. Lasisi ◽  
Adekunle Daniel ◽  
O. T. Bamidele ◽  
...  

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) often complain of taste dysfunction. The prevalent taste dysfunction among patients with CKD predisposes them to malnutrition, poor quality of life, and worsen disease prognoses. To appropriately treat the taste dysfunction in this group of patients, it’s imperative that factors that predict taste dysfunction and its severity are identified for prompt treatment. Aim: To identify factors associated with taste dysfunction and its severity among patients with CKD. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based case–control study of adult patients with CKD at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. The control group was made up of age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers with no clinical and laboratory evidence of CKD. Relevant clinical and social data obtained include demographics, symptoms, and signs of taste dysfunction and its risk factors. The 4 basic taste modalities namely sweet, sour, bitter, and salt taste senses of the participants were tested with validated “taste strips.” Factors that predict taste dysfunction were identified among the spectrum of the disease. Results: There were 100 patients with CKD and 100 healthy controls, age ranges between 19 and 86 years (mean ± standard deviation [SD] = 46.3 ± 13.9 years) and 20 and 85 years (mean ± SD = 43.4 ± 14.9 years), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between cases and control gender distribution ( P = .57). Hypogeusia was found in 27.0% of patients with CKD, while total taste function score of all the control was within normal range. Increasing duration of CKD was identified as a predictor of taste dysfunction among patients with CKD (odds ratio: 4.889, P = .038). The stages of CKD had no statistically significant relationship with the severity of taste dysfunction ( P = .629). Conclusion: The prevalence of taste dysfunction among patients with CKD was high and this showed significant correlation with increasing duration of CKD; in contrast, the severity of CKD is not significant in the development of taste dysfunction.


2017 ◽  
Vol 5 (5) ◽  
pp. 166-183
Author(s):  
SULEIMAN Femi Hafiz

The study examined Age and Gender Sensitivities to Contingency Management and Token Reinforcement strategies on Self Control levels of Remand home inmates in Nigeria.The study adopted the quasi-experimental non-organized pre-test, post-test and control group involving 3x2 factorial designs. The participants were randomly assigned to three groups. Seventy two (72) clients formed the sample for the study. Three remand homes- Akure (Ondo state), Osgbo (Osun state) and Ibadan (Oyo state) were purposively sampled for the study. The clients were randomly assigned to two treatment groups and a control group. The first group was treated with Contingency Management while the second with Token reinforcement and the third served as control. Self Control Scale (SCS) was employed in gathering data and descriptive statistics, ANCOVA, and scheffe posthoc analysis were used to analyze the data. The result revealed that both Contingency Management and token reinforcement strategies were adequately effective therapies in enhancing self control levels of the clients. However no significant difference on the self-control levels of male and female was found as well as that of old and young clients, this implies that both male and females as well as old and young clients are sensitive to Contingency Management and Token Reinforcement strategies. On the basis of these findings, it was highly recommended that government at various levels should employ well trained counseling psychologies who are competent in the use of various behavior modification techniques in solving different maladjustment problems among our youths and clients should avail the opportunity of the training exposed to at various homes and realized that both male and female clients deserve the treatment while the old and the young clients need treatment equally. Though the level of their involvement on delinquent behavior differ from one another, however, both need adequate and qualified counseling psychologies in behavior modification techniques


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